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HorseRacing

N.Y. Gaming Commission Approves Early Saratoga & Belmont Dates

2024-12-03

The New York State Gaming Commission's recent approval has brought significant changes to Saratoga's racing schedule. With the go-ahead for a five-day Belmont Stakes racing festival and an early start to the summer meet, the racing scene in Saratoga is set to be more exciting than ever. The Belmont Stakes, the third leg of racing's Triple Crown, will now take place from Wednesday, June 4, through Sunday, June 8, with the main event on Saturday, June 7. Additionally, the New York Racing Association has received approval for a Fourth of July racing festival from Thursday, July 3, to Sunday, July 6. This early start to the Saratoga meet was requested due to the track's summer meet beginning a week earlier than usual, on July 10. The decision to hold the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga this year was made due to the $455 million renovation of Belmont Park. If construction progresses as planned, the Belmont Stakes is scheduled to return to Belmont Park in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the sport.

Key Highlights of the Racing Festival

The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival

The five-day Belmont Stakes racing festival is set to be a highlight of the summer. With races spread across five days, from Wednesday to Sunday, it offers racing enthusiasts a week-long celebration of the sport. The main event, the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 7, is always a highly anticipated race, and this year it will take place at Saratoga. The festival will showcase the best of Thoroughbred racing and attract fans from all over.

The early start date of the festival allows for a longer racing season and gives fans more opportunities to enjoy the excitement of the track. It also provides a unique opportunity for Saratoga to host a major racing event and showcase its facilities to a wider audience.

The Fourth of July Racing Festival

The Fourth of July racing festival is another exciting addition to Saratoga's calendar. Running from Thursday to Sunday, it offers a four-day stretch of racing action. The holiday weekend adds an extra element of celebration to the races, making it a special event for both fans and participants.

This festival allows the New York Racing Association to extend the racing season and provide additional entertainment for visitors. It also showcases the association's commitment to providing a diverse range of racing experiences throughout the year.

The Early Start to the Saratoga Meet

The decision to start the Saratoga meet a week early was a strategic one. By beginning on July 10 instead of the usual start date, the track can take advantage of the early summer weather and attract more visitors. It also allows for a more seamless transition between the Belmont Stakes festival and the start of the summer meet.

The early start gives the track more time to prepare and ensures that everything is in place for a successful racing season. It also provides an opportunity for trainers and jockeys to get a head start on their preparations and build momentum for the rest of the year.